1st

The Spirit of Christ

1 Peter 1:1 - 12

      The title "The Spirit of Christ" in verse 11 has a very significant meaning and purpose, as it is mentioned this way in only one other passage of scripture, Romans 8:9. "The Spirit of Christ" is specifically the Holy Spirit, as He relates to Jesus Christ the Son, in the work of Salvation. As we read in verses 1-2, we see the three persons of God mentioned by Peter, as God the Father, the (Holy) Spirit, and Jesus Christ. This whole passage deals with the salvation of God the Father's elect, who are sanctified through the Holy Spirit, and covered by the blood of Christ. Throughout the scriptures, over and over again we see the plan of God the Father, for those that will believe, the salvation from God the Son, for those that will and do believe, and the continuing work of God the Spirit, for those that will and have believed. What we begin to realize is that God is three in one and all have a part in salvation; one God, three Persons, three in One. In our physically limited, sinful, finite minds, we cannot even begin to comprehend this concept, but it is taught in God's Word, over and again. And those that are saved, believe and accept this truth of the Trinity, and the Spirit of Christ.

      The key to understanding this doctrine, is the "illumination of the Spirit" in our hearts that comes through salvation. Without the "Spirit of Christ" in our lives, there is no way to believe unto salvation and to understand the purposes and truths of God for salvation, and more specifically, who He is, in the persons of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The power of the Spirit creates the glorious truth of the indwelling presence of God within the believer and also of the believer within God. The Spirit of Christ indwells the believer. We can look at the spirit of a person and tell if he has the Spirit of Christ. If he does, then he bears the fruit of Christ's Spirit. The Spirit and His fruit are seen in the life of the believer. The true believer proves that he is "In" Christ, by the life which he lives. Sadly, the opposite is also true for those that have not the Spirit of Christ. Their spirit and their fruit is not of Christ, rather it is of the world. Please read Luke 13:23-28.

     Oh, Spirit of Christ, as believers in Your work of salvation, may our life's fruit bear clear evidence of Your Spirit who indwells us. Amen.

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2nd

The Spirit of the Lord

Isaiah 11:1-16

     Chapter 11 is prophetic and most of it will be fulfilled in Christ's Millennial reign on the earth in the future. However, our text, Isa. 11:2 opens to us an insight into the ministry of Christ when He was walking the dusty roads of Galilee and Judaea. Isaiah 11:2, And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD. This seven-fold ministry of the Holy Spirit is revealed to us, and each of these words will be part of our daily devotions this month. "Spirit of the LORD; Spirit of wisdom, Spirit of understanding, Spirit of counsel, Spirit of might, Spirit of knowledge and Spirit of the fear of the LORD".

      In Isaiah 61:1, 2, The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound. To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord ....Luke 4:18-19 is almost an exact quotation of the above words. Jesus stopped in the middle of the verse because the second half of the verse refers to His Second Coming and the "Day of Vengeance."

      At the birth of our Saviour, the angelic host announced that Jesus would proclaim good tidings and bring peace to all men. Matthew 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like [as] a dove, and lighting upon him. Jesus' baptism was not a baptism for repentance, rather it was to fulfill all Scripture. With the descent of the Holy Spirit, Jesus began His public ministry. Following his testing of the devil in chapter 4, Jesus preaches the great Sermon on the Mount as recorded in Chapters 5, 6, and 7. This same Holy Spirit that is referred to by Isaiah is the Holy Spirit that indwells every born- again believer. Praise the Lord!

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3rd

The Personality of the Holy Spirit
John 14:16-21

      What is the Holy Spirit? Is it a force or some kind of influence? Is it something that is a part of all men that we call the conscience? These are questions that are often asked by people who seek to understand what the Holy Spirit is and what He does. Today let us start off by saying that the Holy Spirit is not an "it". What we're saying is that the Holy Spirit is not a force or influence or some kind of conscience that all men possess. The Holy Spirit is a Person, an actual Person.

      Notice what Jesus says in John 14:26, But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. This verse helps us to understand that even Christ referred to the Holy Spirit as a person. Also, notice the personal masculine pronoun that Jesus uses, he- not "it". In this verse, we also see some of the personal acts that the Holy Spirit performs. He teaches and reminds. Some of His other activities include convicting men of sin (John 16:8-11), guiding men in truth (John 16:13), glorifying Christ (John 16:14), speaking and calling men into service (Acts 13:2), and interceding on our behalf (Rom. 8:26).

      How unfortunate it is that men treat the Holy Spirit in the way that they do! Notice that the Bible records several different ways in which the Holy Spirit can and has been treated. He can be tempted (Acts 5:9), lied to (Acts 5:3), grieved (Eph 4:30), resisted (Acts 7:51), insulted (Heb. 10:29), and blasphemed (Matt. 12:31). Now seeing that the Holy Spirit is an actual Person, let us ask ourselves two questions. Who is the Holy Spirit to us? And how do we treat Him?

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4th

Spirit of Prophecy
Revelation 19:5-10

      In today 's text, we read Revelation 19:10, the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. The Bible is a Christ centered book, and the Bible is a product of the work of the Spirit of God. We read in 2 Peter 1:21, the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. Jesus challenged the religious leaders in Israel, John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. Jesus did not rise to spiritual leadership in Israel through normal channels. He did not study at the feet of some great Rabbi, or some of the best schools in the world like the apostle Paul, or Moses. Jesus was a simple carpenter until He entered public ministry.

      Therefore, an important evidence of the work of the Holy Spirit is the work of magnifying Jesus Christ. Jesus said, John 12:32 if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. In Acts 1:8 we read that Jesus told his disciples ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. This text is not just for pastors, missionaries or those with some special calling or gift. As surely as the Spirit of God dwells in the heart and is allowed to work in the life, the result is soul winning. Sadly, many of God 's people have never won even one soul to Christ, and many fail to give effective witness to the gospel day after day. A life like this is one lived after the flesh and not of the Spirit. If we have a normal healthy spiritual life, we can and will reproduce. I wonder, can you look around today and see people that have come to Christ in and through you. If not, why not open your heart and life to God today. Follow Him and He will make you to become a fisher of men. A life or church without evangelism is one without the work of the Spirit.

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5th

The Holy Spirit, Comforter
John 14:15-26

      Four times in John 14-16, Jesus calls the Holy Spirit the Comforter. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; Even the Spirit of truth. John 14:16,17 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. John 14:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, he shall testify of me. John 15:26: Nevertheless I tell you the truth; it is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you. John 16:7 Thus, Jesus tells us the Comforter is the Holy Spirit and He was sent by the Father at the request of the Son, Jesus Christ.

      The Greek word for Comforter, parakletos is "literally called to one's side, i.e. to one's aid and suggests the capability for giving aid. It was used in a court of justice to denote a legal assistant, counsel for defence, an advocate. One who pleads another's cause, an intercessor, advocate, as in I John 2:1, of the Lord Jesus. In the widest sense, it signifies a succourer, comforter. Christ was this to His disciples."(Vine) The word another is allos, another of the same sort, not heteros, different.(Vine) The Lord Jesus had been an unfailing source of inspiration and strength to His followers. Now another was coming to take His place. The immediate emphasis is upon the abiding presence of the Spirit forever. V. 16 (E.F. Harrison) It is the Holy Spirit Who indwells every believer Who is the Comforter today.

Thought: "One revealed truth from the Bible is worth more than all the wisdom of men."(Daily Bread, 1982)

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6th

The Spirit of Glory
1 Peter 4:12-19

      This particular name for the Holy Spirit is one that is shown in the Old Testament, as well as the New Testament. The Spirit of Glory, is the Holy Spirit, who has Glory, or Who is Glorious. In the Old Testament, the Glory of God was represented by the Shekinah light, that luminous glow which signified the presence of God in Exodus 33:15-34:9. It is also spoken of in Ezekiel, chapters 8-12, when the Shekinah Glory of God, was being slowly and incrementally withdrawn from the temple and from the nation of Israel. Until Christ came, the work of the Holy Spirit in people's lives was limited, but the promise that Christ then gave was that, when He departed, the Comforter would come.

     And that is what we see in our text today. In verse 14, The Spirit of Glory and of God rests upon you. The important thing to recognize about the Spirit of Glory is this. He only rests on those who truly know Him and follow Him. He is given to those who have truly placed their faith and trust in Jesus Christ to save them, as a guarantee of their decision of faith. Then He guides them in the truth of His Word and in the path that He has planned for them. That's why Peter says back in verse 12, Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. If we are genuine believers, we will face trials, for which we can rejoice for His Names sake. However, there are many who claim to know Christ and yet have never experienced His spirit, nor have any evidence of the Spirit of Glory, or who don't have any spiritual trials and are not reviled for the Name of Christ. Perhaps they have never really accepted Christ as Savior, or else the Spirit of Glory has been quenched in their lives, and His grace is being incrementally withdrawn from them.

     Do you know for sure if the Spirit of Glory and of God rests upon you? If so, you can rejoice and be glad, for He will guide you and help you through each trial that you face. Verse 19, Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to Him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.

      Dear Spirit of Glory, thank you for helping us daily, to live, walk, and talk in a manner worthy of the calling You have given us. Amen.

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7th

The Spirit of Wisdom
I Kings 3:10-28

      Some old sage has said, "Wisdom is the right use of knowledge." I have known people who had a head full of knowledge and very little wisdom. On the other hand, I have known people who had very little knowledge, but were filled with wisdom. Maybe the old sage was wrong? Solomon asked for wisdom and was the wisest man to ever live. God gives wisdom to those who seek it.

      In Isaiah 11:2, The Spirit of Wisdom is the wisdom given to Solomon. The King desired qualifications that would help him lead the nation and settle problems between individuals. Solomon's book of Proverbs is filled with wisdom, as a matter of fact, wisdom is recorded 54 times in Proverbs. Ecclesiastes records "wisdom" 28 times. Wisdom is recorded 54 times in the New Testament, however, it also includes worldly wisdom that is not acceptable to God. Godly wisdom profits a person or a nation. The word "wisdom" is not mentioned in 2 Corinthians 7:8-10, but it is intimated in that a person who has godly sorrow will be led to repentance and salvation.

     As a youth, Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, Luke 2:52. In Acts 6:3 the deacons were chosen because they were full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. It is important to note that being filled with the Holy Spirit stands along side of wisdom. And remember the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God, I Cor. 1:20.

      James says If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him, James 1:5. We are instructed to seek wisdom from God and if we do, we shall receive it. Wisdom is to know when to speak, shut up and sit down. Wisdom is to know when to help and when not to help. A wise counselor needs godly wisdom in order to help others who have large or small problems. A psychologist may have much worldly wisdom, but little godly wisdom when dealing with spiritual problems. Let us pray for the wisdom that comes from God in all spiritual things.

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8th

The Holy Spirit is a Divine Person
Acts 5:1-11

      Not only is the Holy Spirit an actual Person, but he is a divine Person. He is deity. In Acts chapter five, we find that Peter says to Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost,... why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. In this passage, it is clear to see that the Holy Spirit is God. He is co-equal to the Father and the Son. Though there is only one God, He is three distinct Persons. In Matthew 28:19 Jesus identifies the three distinct Persons, Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. The Holy Spirit is the third Person in the God-Head (Trinity).

     The Holy Spirit possesses all the same attributes as the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit is eternal (Hebrews 9:14), Omnipotent-- all-powerful (Romans 8:11), Omnipresent-- present everywhere (Psalms 139:11), and Omniscient-- all-knowing (1 Corinthians 2:10-11). We will talk about these four attributes in more detail later in the month.

     Aside from the Holy Spirit being called God, and possessing all the same attributes of the Father and the Son, He also performs works that only God can do. Such works of deity are attributed to Him like; creation (Genesis 1:2), the inspiration of the Scriptures (2 Peter 1:21), and the raising of the dead (Romans 8:11).

     As we go throughout the day, let us be challenged to meditate on the person, ministry, and work of the Holy Spirit. And as we meditate on Him, let us not forget His relationship to us. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

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9th

The Spirit of God Has Set Us Free
Romans 8:1-9

     From time to time, I think about the idea of a free will. What does it mean? I am not sure. We need to appreciate that what we are by nature has a great impact on our desires and choices in life. For example, if we are normal and healthy, psychologists tell us that self-preservation is one of our strongest natural instincts. We are free to choose to hurt ourselves, but no one in his or her right mind has that desire or ability. The apostle Paul speaks of this instinct in Ephesians 5:29 when he writes under the inspiration of the Spirit of God, no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it. I believe this instinct is good and comes from the original creation. However, in the original creation, this principle was subordinate to our love for God and His honor. Sadly, since the fall, each individual exalts self above all else.

     With the fall of man into sin, the race became spiritually dead and all became sinners by nature and choice. Romans 5:12. by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. As sinners, we choose sin and desire sin. Martin Luther had this debate about our will being the product of a corrupt nature with the great thinkers of his day. Luther affirmed the Biblical concept that the human heart is in bondage to sin in his book, The Bondage of the Will. In Proverbs 5:22 we read, His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.

     Yet, when we are born of the Spirit of God through faith in Christ, love for God and goodness becomes the dominant force in our lives. We retain our fallen nature of the flesh, but through the Spirit of God, we are made partakers of the divine nature. As such, we are free from the bondage and corruption of sin. As we see in today 's text, Romans 8:2 the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. There is simply no substitute for this powerful work of the Spirit of God in our lives. Say have you come to experience the power of God 's grace? If not why not open your heart to the work of God today?

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10th

The Presence of the Holy Spirit
Psalm 51:1-13

      This Psalm has been attributed to David and is one of the great penitential Psalms. Penitential means "Proceeding from or expressing penitence or contrition of heart; as penitential sorrow or tears."(Webster, 1828) Another word for it is repentance, being sorrowful on account of sin or transgressions. "It opens with a general cry for pardon, which comes out of a deep sense of sin, and an equally profound desire for forgiveness."(G. Campbell Morgan) It is the prayer of David as he repents of his sin with Bathsheba.

      In his prayer, David cries out Cast me not away from thy presence; take not thy Holy Spirit from me. 51:11. Before Jesus was glorified and before Pentecost, the Spirit was not poured out upon all flesh. The Holy Ghost was not yet given; because Jesus was not yet glorified. John 7:39 In the Old Covenant, His work in the heart of men was therefore altogether different from what it is now. It was characterized in this way: (1) The Spirit was not given to all. God clothed with His Spirit those whom He called to a special ministry; (2) The Spirit was temporarily given, and could be withdrawn; (3) The work of the Spirit in the heart of man was not as yet complete.(Rene Pache) Thus David was concerned that God would remove the Holy Spirit from him. That God would withdraw His comforts, counsels, assistances and quickenings. (Spurgeon)

     Under the New Covenant it is different. When a person accepts the Saviour, the Holy Spirit indwells that individual and Jesus said He would abide forever. John 14:16 He can be grieved and quenched Eph. 4:30; I Thess. 5:19, but His presence remains with us.

      Thought: “If you are headed in the wrong direction, God allows U-turns.”(The Lifeline)

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11th

The Spirit of God
Genesis 1:1-2:4

      The phrase, “Spirit of God” is mentioned elsewhere in the scriptures, but let's take a look at this particular passage today. I personally love how Genesis starts out in verse one, In the beginning, God. Folks, this truth is directly opposed by our society and it's thinking today. All we ever hear much anymore is man's version of evolution, "millions and millions of years ago." To these evolutionists, we as genuine believers, boldly shout,"Not So!" Either God's Word is completely true and trustworthy, or it's not. And we as believers, with the "Spirit of God" in our lives, can shout from the rooftops with clear testimony to the fact that "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." What a glorious truth we see here! The Trinity, God the Father, God, Jesus Christ the Son, and God, the Holy Spirit, were all involved as "Creator" of the universe and the world as we know it, including you and I. Verse 2 says And the Spirit of God moved on the face of the waters. This describes the Spirit of God, as He is omnipresent, literally, being everywhere at the same time, as the creation was taking place in 6, literal, 24-hour days. John 1:1-4 says this about the Son, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. It is great cause for personal excitement when we see in God' s Holy Word, what He has done for those that already have received Christ, and for those who will place their faith and trust in Christ to save them for all of eternity. The Spirit of God took an active part in our being created. He also takes an active part in convicting the world of sin, and He is given as a guide and comforter to those who have confessed Christ as Savior! Praise God! Praise God for His Creation and making us! Praise God for His Son in saving us! Praise God for the Holy Spirit of God as He lives within us and guides us moment by moment!

     Dear Spirit of God, Creator, Sustainer, Comforter, Indweller, may we forever sing this song unto You! Praise God from Whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

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12th

The Spirit of Understanding
Colossians 1:9-14

     The introduction to the Gospel of Luke (1:1-4) establishes the groundwork for writing to Theophilus. Luke also writes to the same man in Acts 1:1. Luke wants Theophilus to understand both the life and work of Jesus and the history of the early church.

     In Ephesians 4:18, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Paul tells us the Jewish nation was stumbling about in ignorance and blindness because of their hard hearts. This is also true for the gentiles who reject the new birth. The other side of the coin is found in Eph. 1:18, The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. The born-again believers are enlightened, that is, his or her eyes, mind and heart are opened to know where they are going. Having accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior they understand the hope of eternal life looking forward to the inheritance that awaits them in glory. We only have an earnest of what is ahead for us in eternity.

     Ephesians 5:17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. Paul uses the negative "NOT" to get our attention and then a positive thought, THAT YOU MAY KNOW WHAT THE WILL OF GOD. Many Christians go through life not knowing what God wants of them. They waste their talents on trivial things when God has something important for them to do.

     2 Timothy 2:7 Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things. We do not have the space, but please read the context (vss. 1-8) and note the eight charges Paul gives to Timothy. Also to us Be strong, commit, endure hardness, no man that warreth gets involved in the things of the world, strive for the masteries except he strive lawfully, wait for the fruit, consider and remember.

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13th

Work of the Holy Spirit in Creation
Genesis 1:1 - 31

     The creation account often receives much attention. Maybe we find ourselves thinking about the power of God, His creativity and beauty. Could it be that we find ourselves in awe at times wondering how He could do so much in such a short period of time (six days)? As we look at the account of creation, we find that the Holy Spirit was involved directly. In Genesis 1:2, the Bible tells us And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And, in Job 26:13 we see that By his spirit he hath garnished the heavens; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent.

      It is interesting to note that the Holy Spirit was not the only one involved in the creation account. John 1:3 tells us All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. And, also in Colossians 1:16 we find that Scripture says For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him. These two verses are referring to God the Son. On several occasions the Son of God made reference to how He does nothing of His own accord, but does the will of the Father. So it is that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost were all involved in creation.

     On the sixth day, the Bible tells us that God created man. Note the words that are mentioned here in Genesis 1:26, And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Who is God referring to when he says us, our and our? Here again we find that the Holy Spirit is assisting the Father and the Son in the creation of man.

      Job 33:4 The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.

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14th

The Spirit of the Father
Matthew 10:16-22

      In today 's text, the Spirit of God is spoken of in terms of the Spirit of the Father. Consider Matthew 10:20. In this text, we are encouraged as we face difficult and unreasonable persecution not to be too concerned about what we say because, it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.

      No doubt, without these words of encouragement, God 's people would find the hatred and abuse of persecution unbearable. We would be very troubled over how to respond to our enemies, but thank God He will give us the grace we need to face each trial. It does not matter how smart we are or how much we try to prepare, God will give the grace we need in such times of persecution.

      There is no doctrine any more difficult to comprehend than the doctrine of the Trinity. Some object that those who accept the Trinity believe in three Gods. We do not. Orthodox Christianity from the very first century has ever been Monotheistic and Trinitarian. Human reason would have us either ignore the complexity of the divine persons or define it in terms of three gods. There are not three gods. God is one. Yet, He exists in great complexity. God the Son, did not become the Son at the incarnation. Jesus Christ was the Son of God from all eternity. According to the Word of God, the Spirit of God proceeds from both the Father and the Son. If we try to understand these Biblical concepts using the tool of human reason, we will fail.

      This reference to the Spirit of the Father is a witness to the Trinity of God. We have nothing in language, reason or experience with which to understand God. Yet, the infinite is not beyond our grasp, even a child can understand what is sufficient. Indeed, children are not nearly as prone to question things they do not understand. Therefore, when it comes to spiritual things they have great advantage over even the best minds. Faith would have us rest in God and not fret in the face of deadly hatred and abuse, and faith would have us embrace the whole of the Bible not tear it apart. Say, can you rest yourself in God 's love and grace today?

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15th

The Holy Spirit and the Bible
II Timothy 3:14-17; II Peter 1:20,21

      We are thinking of the Holy Spirit and the inspiration of the Scriptures. "The Scripture distinctly affirms that the sacred books were not composed by men according to their fancy or their own ideas. Their authors were inspired and guided by the Spirit who alone searches and reveals the deep things of God, I Cor. 2:9-11, so that their writings afford us all the desired guarantees."(Rene Pache) For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. II Peter 1:21 All the prophets from Moses to Malachi declare, Thus spake the Lord, or saith the Lord, or again, the word of the Lord came unto me, saying. Now without the Spirit, these men would not have had a single revelation."(Rene Pache)

      "Jesus explicitly stated that the New Testament, as well as the Old, was inspired by the Spirit."(Pache) The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. John 14:26 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. John 16:13. Paul declares that he and the apostles have received the revelation of all the counsel of God. But God hath revealed them (things in v. 9) unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. I Cor. 2:10. The mystery of Christ is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. Eph. 3:5. We need to approach the Bible with respect. The Holy Spirit is the Author.

      Thought: The traditions of men do not always equate with that of God.(The Lifeline)

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16th

The Spirit of Grace and Supplication
Genesis 6:1-8, Zechariah 12:10

      As professing and possessing believers, (Christians) have we ever stopped to consider the abundant grace of God, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in our lives? This particular title is very intriguing, as it literally shows us that the Holy Spirit brings saving grace to men, and that saving grace, produces sorrow in a persons life, that will result, in repentant prayer to God for forgiveness. It also shows us that only saints, born-again believers, have an interest in the blood of Christ, as it has been applied to them, and as the Holy Spirit intercedes for them. Realizing this, none of us can really pray like we should - those of us that Christ prays for. And so we must approach God by His Spirit. We have access by one Spirit to the Father, Ephesians 2:18. We can effectively pray under the influence of the Holy Spirit with groanings which cannot be uttered, while unbelievers, sadly, can only groan without prayer. They have not cried unto Me with their heart, when they howled upon their beds, Hosea 7:14.

      When we pray, our prayers are to be acceptable to God by His Spirit, in that they are to be according to the will of God. The Spirit, Himself being God, prays for us as only He can, and makes our prayers acceptable to Him. We cannot accomplish this in our carnal minds as it says in Romans 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. We see that the intercession made by the Holy Spirit is according to the command and revealed will of God and in the name of Christ. Then, the Holy Spirit teaches the saints how to pray and for what they should pray. Just as Christ literally intercedes for us on the throne, the Holy Spirit is teaching us how to pray on earth, in perfect tune with what Christ is praying for us in Heaven. That's really an encouraging thought as a believer!

Dear Spirit of Grace and Supplication, help me to pray for what I should. Conform my life and my will to Yours. Help our prayers to be those of the upright, those in which You delight, so that You can fulfill Your desires in those that fear You. In Jesus Name, Amen.

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17th

The Spirit of Counsel and Might
Hebrews 6:13-20

     When Peter spoke on the Day of Pentecost, "The Birthday of the Church" he fully understood that the Godhead had planned the crucifixion before the world was formed. They knew Adam would sin, therefore the plan of salvation both for Adam and all his posterity would be settled at the cross. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain. Acts 2:23

      Paul understood the counsel of God before he wrote to the church at Ephesus, In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: Ephesians 1:11. Paul on his way to Jerusalem and Rome rehearsed to the leaders of the Ephesian Church, I have not shunned to declare unto you all the (whole) counsel of God. Acts 20:27. Paul had given them the whole counsel of God. Ministers today should have the burden of Paul.

      The writer of Hebrews spoke of the unchanging of God Wherein God, willing more abundantly to show unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath, Hebrews 6:17. The counsel of God never changes! It will never change! That is why we have the word "immutability". He never changes his mind. We are as changeable as the weather, or as our feelings, or moods. We don't even have good horse sense, that is, "stable minded." (Read the context, Hebrews 6:16-20)

      The mighty works of God are made known to us in Christ in Hebrews 2:14, Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. The above verse shows the might of God and the Word of God for all to see. We may think ourselves to be above the wisdom and might of God, but remember the Psalmist said we are but worms in the dust of the ages Psalms 22:6.

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18th

The Work of the Holy Spirit in the Incarnation of Christ
Matthew 1:18-25

      The Bible tells us in Luke 1:31, that an angel appeared unto Mary and said, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. Mary's response to this news is one of confusion. Notice Luke 1:34, Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? Then in the following verse the angel says, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. In Matthew1:20 the Bible clearly tells us that that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.

      Keep in mind that the real Father is the Holy Ghost and not Joseph. Why is it important that the father of Jesus be God Himself? Because Jesus is the Son of God, and God must become man for several reasons.

• Reason number one, the Bible says in Romans 15:8 that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers.
• God became man to confirm the promises made like the ones found in Gen. 3:15, Is. 9:6, and 7:14.
• He also became man to reveal the Father (Jn. 14:9),
• to become our faithful high priest (Heb. 5:1-10),
• to put away sin (Heb. 9:26),
• to destroy the works of the devil (1 Jn. 3:5),
• to give us an example of a holy life (1Pt. 2:21),
• and to prepare for the His second coming (Heb. 9:28).
  
       That which is conceived in Mary is of the Holy Ghost. Baby Jesus, the Son of God, came to reveal the will of the Father. What a beautiful picture of unity as the Father, Son and Holy Ghost work together because of their love for us. Oh that we could learn from this example of working together and apply it to our homes, churches, communities, and nation!
  
        Much work needs to be done, but it doesn't need to be done by only one person.

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Tuesday, March 19th

The Spirit of Christ
I Peter 1:3-12

      In today 's text, we see the Spirit of prophecy in terms of the Spirit of Christ. 1 Peter 1:11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. Here we are told that the very men, who brought to us the Word of God, did not always understand the things of which they spoke. Specifically, they did not understand how the Messiah would come to suffer and die. Like the apostles perhaps, they were looking for a conquering king that would come and solve all the problems of the nation Israel.

      Because of the misguided tendency of people, some would deny that the kingdom is coming. They forget that it is not the substance in question, but the time that is in doubt. It is God 's purpose to demonstrate His great glory before all, but there is a time for every purpose under heaven. It is not for us to know the times and the seasons. The time is something the Father has reserved to Himself alone.

      It is to our advantage that we don 't have the physical presence of Jesus Christ, but the Spirit of Christ. Jesus said to His disciples, John 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. The Spirit of Christ or the Spirit of God is the Comforter spoken of in this text. It is the Spirit of God in our hearts that gives us all spiritual understanding. We need God 's direction, understanding and empowerment in our day to day lives. Some emphasize specific showy externals of God 's power and miss the substance. The natural man does not understand the things of the Spirit of God. As we consider this truth, I wonder how many have found the Spirit of God to be more helpful to them in day to day living than the actual physical presence of Jesus Christ? We dare not be content without a faith that has meaningful substance in our experience.

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Wednesday, March 20th

The Holy Spirit Convicts
John 16:1-11

      In this passage, Jesus tells us what the Holy Spirit would do when He came. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment; Of sin, because they believe not on me; Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. Vss 8-11, Another word for reprove is convict. The primary task of the Holy Spirit in the life of the unsaved is to convict of sin. "Thus it is clear that man must recognize that he is in a state of sin before he can accept the Saviour who will deliver him from it. It is a sick man, who, acknowledging his illness, seeks a doctor, Mark 2:17."(Rene' Pache) The Holy Spirit convicts the world, that is to say all men, of sin. There is none to whom He does not impart a sense of guilt, whether it be through the Scriptures or simply by his conscience Rom. 2:14,15.(Pache)

      The Holy Spirit also brings conviction concerning righteousness. V. 10, "Not only does the Spirit show man his state of perdition, but reveals to him at the same time Jesus Christ, whose righteousness and divinity are proved by His resurrection and return to the Father's side. Thus, God convinces a heart that is sincere in its repentance that Jesus is of a truth the Saviour who being Himself just, will justify those who in faith depend on Him, Rom. 5:19."(Pache)

      The Holy Spirit also brings conviction of judgment. V. 11, All who withstand the Holy Spirit will receive the same punishment as the Devil and his angels, everlasting fire. Matt. 25:41

      Thought: The best sermons are not seen, not heard; they live in the lives of men and women.(The Eagle, Messiah Baptist, Lakewood, CO)

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21st

The Spirit of Holiness
Romans 1:1-17

      This particular title is unique, in that it is used in description of Christ and His work through the resurrection, and in reference to His divine nature compared to His human nature. John 4:24 says, "God is a spirit and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth." As we have been looking at God the Holy Spirit throughout this month, we have seen and know that God is one God, and manifests Himself to us in three persons, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. It is something that we as believers must believe in faith, because we cannot understand it in our human minds or concepts.

     Jesus, in His human nature, came through the line of David and was born of Mary. In His divine nature, we see He is declared to be the Son of God according to the Spirit of Holiness. Other references regarding this truth include; "the Lord (that is, Christ) is that Spirit," 2 Corinthians 3:17. He is called "a quickening Spirit," in 1 Corinthians 15:45, which character belonged to Him in a particular manner after His resurrection, when He appeared as the spiritual Head of His Church, communicating spirit and life to all His members. The unusual expression, Spirit of Holiness, appears, here to denote His Deity, in contrast with His humanity, characterizing Him as God, who is a Spirit essentially holy. (The Bible commentary on Romans) So we have here a summary of the gospel doctrine concerning Christ's two natures in one person.

     As we read God's Word and learn of these unique truths about Him, it is always amazing to consider the plan that He made, from the very beginning of time as we know it, for those that would place their faith and trust in Him. God desires that none should perish, but that all should come to repentance. So through His Word, through His Son, and through the Holy Spirit, He manifests Himself to the whole world. Those people, who will come to Him, may have eternal life and see the Glory of God according to the Spirit of Holiness, as He continues His plan for the redeemed.

      Dear Spirit of Holiness, thank you for Your great salvation that was wrought for the whole world and for me. Thank you for teaching us these wonderful truths about You. In Jesus name, Amen.

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22nd

The Spirit of Knowledge
Colossians 1:9-11

      The above Scripture is our text, please read it! 1 Cor. 15:34 b. some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. The knowledge of God is only be obtained by reading of the Word of God and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

      Ephesians 3:19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. The world system has no understanding of the knowledge of God, but we do! The following statement is from 2 Timothy 3:7, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. It has been stated that knowledge shall be increased. Daniel 12:4 But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. We live in the electric age. And what is new today will be obsolete tomorrow. The Bible is as up to date as tomorrow's headlines in the newspaper, or radio, or TV.

      1 Timothy 2:3-4 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. Pilate wanted to know what was truth. That was answered by Jesus in John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. The knowledge given to us by the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is the knowledge and understanding that sets us free from the presence, power and penalty of sin.

      James asks a question in James 3:13 and then answers it with a poignant statement Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him show out of a good conversation (manner of life) his works with meekness of wisdom. Would to God this were true in every Christian's life. Meekness does not mean we are to be a "Mr. Milktoast", but rather filled with humility and awe as we stand before the Lord of the universe. Remember I Corinthians 3:12-14, we shall be judged for our works, be they wood, hay or stubble, or gold, silver and precious stones.

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23rd

The Holy Spirit is Eternal and All-Present
Psalm 139:7-11

     As was mentioned earlier in the month, the Holy Spirit is the third person in the God-Head. It could be that He is the one who is most often overlooked because most of the focus is usually on the Father and the Son. But the Holy Spirit is just as important as the Father and the Son. All three are co-equal and share the same Divine attributes. Today, we will look at two of those divine attributes. The Holy Spirit is both Eternal and Omnipresent (everywhere at once).

      We all know that the Bible says in Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God... Here we are given the fact that even before the creation of the world, God was already present. As mentioned before, the Holy Spirit assisted in the creation of the world (Gen. 1:2). The Holy Spirit was not only in the beginning of creation, but He is also Eternal. The Bible tells in Hebrews 9:14, How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

      One of the Spirit's most convicting attributes is His omnipresence. There is not a place that a person can hide and not be seen by God. Jonah found this to be true as he tried to run from God. Though we may be able to hide ourselves and our sins from others, we can not hide from God. Psalm 139:12 says the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. Yes, His Omnipresence can be convicting, but it can also be a great source of encouragement. If we ever find ourselves in trouble, just remember how God was with Daniel in the lions den; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the furnace; Joseph in the pit; and Paul and Silas in prison. He delivered them! Can he not deliver you also? Remember that nothing is hidden from God.

      Proverbs 15:3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

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24th

The Spirit of Adoption
Romans 8:10-16

     In our text today, we read about the special spiritual position of all those who have come to faith in Christ. We are not just delivered from sin and damnation, we enter the very family of God. One Spirit places us all into one body. 1 Corinthians 12:13 ...by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. The Greek root-word baptize means to dip or place into water. The Spirit of God places all who believe into one body. All who believe are recreated in Christ. They are born-again by the Spirit.

      This fact will impact our soul in very substantive ways. In our text, we read Romans 8:15... ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. Sin leaves us with feelings of guilt, shame and fear of just condemnation and judgment, but faith leaves us with grace and feelings of love, acceptance and forgiveness. There is no condemnation for those in Christ. Romans 8:16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God... This is not just something we believe. It is a new realization in our heart and soul.

      Some are very fearful of experience, but there is an experience of faith and salvation. At salvation, we move from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. There can be no greater difference than spiritual light and darkness. It is important that we come to experience peace and assurance in our souls. Sadly, it is the character of error to leave people with no assurance. False religion always leaves people striving for the unreachable. It always seeks to motivate people after the flesh. However, those who have been born of the Spirit need no such motivation. Their very nature is such that they delight in God and all goodness. They don't need or respond to such fleshly motivation. They have a new nature and destiny.

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25th

The Holy Spirit Regenerates
John 3:1-8

      "At the very moment of conversion, the Holy Spirit, through the working of faith, brings about in such a heart the following operations which are but the differing aspects of one and the same intervention:

(1) The Spirit regenerates the believer;

(2) The Spirit baptizes him;

(3) The believer receives the Spirit;

(4) The Spirit adopts him;

(5) He sets His seal upon him;

(6) He gives him the earnest of eternal salvation;

(7) The Spirit dwells within him;

(8) He anoints him for service." (Rene' Pache)

      What is regeneration? "The soul of sinful man is dead and estranged from God, for the wages of sin is death, Rom. 6:23. By the miracle of regeneration, the soul is revived, newly begotten and granted eternal life. Jesus described this experience as being born anew, John 3:3,7.(Pache) It is impossible for anyone to be saved apart from this taking place. Regeneration is brought about by the Holy Spirit. Except a man be born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. John 3:5,6, Paul also speaks very clearly about regeneration. Even when we were dead in sins, (God) hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Eph. 2:5,6

     "When does regeneration take place? At the very moment when the heart, under the Spirit's double conviction of sin and righteousness, accepts the Saviour, who is presented to him. On God's part it is an immediate act." (Pache) John 1:12,13

      Thought:"God formed us, sin deformed us, but Christ alone can transform us."(The Lifeline)

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26th

The Spirit of Judgment
Isaiah 4:1-6

     Today we want to look at the Spirit of Judgment and what this particular title means. We understand that reformation-work in a person's life is solely God's work, and if anything is done regarding reformation, it is His doing. So let's take a look at how God does this. In His Word, we see that it is by the judgment of His providence that sinners are destroyed and consumed; but it is by the Spirit of His grace that sinners are reformed and converted. This is the work that is done, not by (our) might, nor by (our) power, but by the Spirit of the Lord of hosts, in Zec. 4:6. He is working both upon the sinners themselves that will be reformed and through pastors and ministers of the gospel, and others that He can and will use as instruments of His reformation.

      So we see in our passage that the Spirit acts as a spirit of judgment, who enlightens our minds with His truth, and convinces our consciences to walk in obedience. He also acts as a spirit of wisdom, guiding us to deal prudently in Isa. 52:13. He then acts as a discerning, distinguishing, Spirit, helping us to distinguish and separate between the precious, eternal things and the vile, worldly things. Next, He acts as a Spirit of burning, who quickens and invigorates the afflictions, and causes us to be zealous to good works. The Spirit also works as fire in Mt. 3:11.

      Because of these areas of the Spirit's work in our lives, we are to have an undivided love for Christ and for lost souls, and also a flaming zeal against sin, that will literally carry us on with His purpose, in our efforts to turn away from ungodliness. As we evaluate our hearts today, do we have this undivided love for Christ and for lost souls? Are we carried in our efforts, by an undivided purpose and a flaming zeal to turn away from sin and ungodliness? If we truly know Christ as Savior, the spirit of judgment is actively at work in our hearts to daily guide us in these areas, and then as such, His redeeming work is accomplished through His obedient children.

      Dear Spirit of Judgment, cause our hearts and lives to be molded and shaped into instruments that are useable for Your service. Continue to daily convict us of sin, and lead us in the paths of righteousness for Your names sake! It's in Christ's name we pray. Amen.

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27th

The Spirit of the Fear of the Lord
Selected Scriptures

      Isaiah 11:2, And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD. This is the last of six messages from the above Scripture, The Spirit of the Fear of the Lord. The Spirit of the Lord was to be on Jesus without measure. Col. 1:19, 20; tells us the fullness in Christ would be used to reconcile all things to Himself, and Col. 2:9 reminds us that in Jesus dwells the fullness of the Godhead bodily. Jesus always referred to the Father in a spirit of submission. Jesus prayed to the Father before every large or small event in his life. If we are to walk as Christ walked, we must also bathe every activity in prayer before we embark on any project be it large or small. Remember, from God comes all wisdom, understanding, counsel, and might, and knowledge.

      The Psalms refer to the Fear of the Lord no less than five times in Chapters 19:9; 22:23; 34:9; 34:9; 111:10, and then to Proverbs where again the Fear of the Lord is used five times. Proverbs, 1:7; The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. This substantiates what Isaiah said in our text 11:2. Proverbs 8:13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate. Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. Proverbs 10:27 The fear of the LORD prolong-eth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened. Proverbs 22:4 By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life. If ever there was witness after witness given for our fearing the Lord, it is in the above verses. We are to hate or shun evil; love wisdom; knowledge and understanding; prolong the days of our lives, and live humbly. These verses instruct us to reverence, obey and submit to the ministry of the Holy Spirit as Christ gave himself in complete submission. For us to practice these is to see a revival in any church.

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28th

The Holy Spirit is both All-Powerful and All-Knowing
1 Corinthians 2:6-16

      The Holy Spirit is both Omnipotent (all-powerful) and Omniscient (all- knowing). He shares all the same power and knowledge of that of the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit is the agent that is now with us while we still live here on Earth. According to Mark 16:19, the Bible tells us about the ascension of Christ, that after the Lord had spoken unto them (the disciples), he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. So, the Father and the Son are both in heaven even now. Before Jesus left He told His disciples in, John 16:7, Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

      Just think, the all-powerful and all-knowing God is not just in heaven, He is right here on earth. And it is not that He is just somewhere here on Earth, He indwells the body of every believer. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul makes a statement by asking the question, What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

      Often times, our thinking is limited to the idea that we only have access to God when we need it, but God does not just want us to know that we have access to the all-powerful and all-knowing Holy Spirit. He wants us to use the power and knowledge that He provides. James 1:5 says If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. In this verse, we see that God wants to give wisdom. In the next verse we get an idea of the power that can be ours. Luke 1:37 says, For with God nothing shall be impossible. Let us remember that no one has more power or knowledge than God himself. He offers that power and knowledge through the Holy Spirit. Why look to yourself and others for help when the believer possesses the Holy Spirit?

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29th

The Spirit of Glory
I Peter 4:12-16

     In our text, we read about the grace of God manifesting itself in the life of believers in difficult circumstances. We don 't always think of grace and suffering in terms of glory. 1 Peter 4:14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. Yet, for renewed minds, what could be more glorious than the cross of Jesus Christ. The Bible never encourages human pride. On the other hand, human wisdom ever seeks to build self-esteem. We hear people talk about how important it is to take pride in our work and ourselves. We need to see this for what it is. It is darkness and the flesh. The apostle Paul stated, Galatians 6:14 God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. What the world would see as shameful defeat, spiritual minds see as glorious. If we cannot bring ourselves to seek God's goodness and righteousness over the pleasures and comforts of this life, we will come only to find everlasting shame. However, if we suffer for righteousness sake, it is a glorious thing. This understanding and feeling is a direct result of the work of the Spirit of God. Thus, the Spirit of God is described in terms of the Spirit of glory.

      Those who live for self and the flesh cannot understand this. They value the pleasures and comforts of this world above all else. 1 Corinthians 2:14 the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. We must look deeper than the surface to appreciate God and eternal things, and escape the corruption that is in this world. I wonder today, have you come to appreciate and value the Spirit of glory? Sadly, most glory in the things that quickly pass away. If we find life eternal, we need to learn what it means to glory in righteousness and even the suffering that may result.

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30th

The Power of the Highest
Luke 1:26-35

      This term is found in the announcement by the angel Gabriel to Mary regarding the birth of Jesus. And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God, Luke 1:35. It was in response to Mary's question, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? V. 34, The angel had just announced to her that she had been chosen by God to conceive and be the mother of Jesus. It was to be a miraculous conception. "The angel answered the biological question, saying: The thing shall be done by the direct act of God, the power of the Most High, the Holy Spirit, wrapping thee around, overshadowing thee, producing in thy womb the Man-child; and also, by that same act, by that same energy, by that same force, the Holy Spirit overshadowing, that which is begotten shall be held from contamination with the sin of thy nature, and in human nature. It shall be holy." (G. Campbell Morgan)

     The term highest is "a title ascribed to Jehovah Ps. 18:13; 87:5." (Unger) "Most High" it is used of God in Luke 1:32,35, 76; 6:35."(Vine) It could refer to "the highest region, i.e. heaven Matt. 21:9; Mark 11:10; Luke 2:14, etc. also of rank, the most high God Mark 5:7; Luke 8:28"(Unger) There is no doubt to whom it refers here. It is speaking of the Holy Spirit. "God is not limited to the ordinary; He can do, and does do, extraordinary things; God is not imprisoned within that which men call the natural; but for His own purposes, He can act in a way men can only describe as supernatural." (Morgan)

      Thought: "The cross is God ’s compass pointing the lost to heaven." (Daily Bread, 1979)

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31st

The Spirit of Life
Romans 8:1-17

      Freedom from sin! Life eternal! These are exciting words used in Romans 8 to describe how the Spirit of Life works for those who are in Christ Jesus. Let's take a look at just what the power of God's Spirit of Life accomplishes in the lives of believers. The spirit, who is mentioned only once in the first 7 chapters, is now referred to nearly 20 times in chapter 8. He frees us from sin and death, and He gives us life. He pulls our minds to spiritual things and enables us to fulfill God's law. He dwells within us and gives us eternal life. He changes our nature and grants us strength, for victory over our unredeemed flesh, literally, He gives believers the power to mortify or "put to death" evil deeds. He leads and identifies us and confirms our adoption as God's children. He bears witness with our spirit and then guarantees our ultimate glory in the last part of the chapter. These things are just the beginning for those who have placed their faith and trust in Jesus Christ.

      Isn 't it a sad day though, when a person rejects Christ, dies the physical death and goes into eternity to suffer forever and ever. We've probably known quite a few of these folks. Yet it's an even sadder day when someone claims to know Christ and yet never grows, nor experiences the things described above. They've been enlightened to the truth but have never really repented and received and accepted the truth that Christ died in their place for their sin. They have, instead, chosen to walk the road to destruction and enjoyed the pleasures of sin for a time. Scripture declares that this road is broad and many there are that are on it. But the road to eternal life is narrow and few there are that find it.

      For the person who makes this life changing decision and repents of his or her sins and truly accepts Christ's payment of sin on their behalf, this is a glorious and wonderful day! And so this begs the question, where do you stand? Are you sure that you're saved? Is there any fruit in your life to prove it? Is there now, no condemnation in your life because you are truly in Christ? If so, praise God for His Spirit of Life in your soul! If you haven 't, why not place your faith and trust in Him today, so that you, too, may experience the life of Abundance and Freedom and Joy that God has in store for those that love Him!

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